Solar panels work by capturing sunlight and converting it into usable electricity through a process that runs continuously whether skies are clear or cloudy. Photovoltaic panels on the roof collect raw energy in the form of direct current, which an inverter then converts to alternating current so it can power the home. Any surplus electricity flows back through a bidirectional meter to the utility grid, and Arizona homeowners on APS or SRP receive bill credits through a process called net metering.
How Solar Works for Phoenix, AZ Homeowners
Arizona is one of the best places in the entire country to go solar. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Phoenix Valley homeowners on APS or SRP have a significant natural advantage when it comes to generating clean, affordable power from the sun. Here is exactly how a residential solar system works, from sunlight hitting your roof to credits showing up on your utility bill.
The Solar Energy Process, Step by Step.
Step 1: Sunlight Hits Your Panels
Solar panels installed on your roof capture sunlight throughout the day, not just when it is bright and sunny. Photovoltaic (PV) panels generate electricity even on overcast days, though peak production happens during the long, intensely sunny Arizona afternoons that make Phoenix one of the top solar markets in the country. Read our blog about solar panel types here.
Step 2: Panels Convert Sunlight into DC Electricity
Your solar panels convert captured sunlight into Direct Current (DC) electricity. DC power is the raw form of solar energy, not yet usable by your home appliances on its own.
Step 3: The Inverter Converts DC to AC
An electrical inverter transforms DC electricity into Alternating Current (AC) electricity, which is the standard form of power your home runs on. The inverter is one of the most important components in your system, and your Phoenix Valley Solar broker will recommend the right inverter type and brand for your specific setup. Read our blog about inverters here.
Step 4: Your Electrical Panel Distributes the Power
The AC electricity flows into your home's main electrical panel, which acts as a distribution hub, directing power to where it is needed throughout your home in real time.
Step 5: Your Home Uses Solar Power First
Your home prioritizes solar energy before drawing anything from the APS or SRP grid. During peak sun hours, which in Phoenix align directly with peak AC usage, your panels can offset a significant portion of your most expensive electricity consumption.
Step 6: Excess Energy Goes to Battery Storage (If Applicable)
If your system includes a battery storage unit, any solar energy your home does not immediately need gets stored for later use, such as evenings, cloudy days, or during a grid outage. Not every system includes battery storage, but it is an option worth discussing for homeowners in Sun City, Surprise, or anywhere that experiences summer outages. Read our blog about battery type here.
Step 7: Remaining Excess Goes Back to the Grid via Net Metering
Any leftover solar energy that your home does not use and your battery does not store passes through a bi-directional utility meter back to the APS or SRP grid. In exchange, your utility company issues credits that are applied to future bills, a process called net metering. The credit rate varies between APS and SRP, which is one reason working with an independent solar broker matters when sizing your system correctly.
Step 8: You Draw From the Grid When Needed
At night or during periods of low solar production, your home draws power from the APS or SRP grid as usual. Net metering credits you have accumulated help offset these charges, reducing your overall monthly bill.
Why Solar Works So Well in the Phoenix Valley.
Phoenix averages more peak sun hours per day than almost any other major metro in the United States. That means your panels produce more power per watt of installed capacity here than they would in most other states. Combined with rising APS and SRP rates, the math on solar in Scottsdale, Goodyear, Sun City, Fountain Hills, and across the Phoenix Valley is increasingly compelling.
How Phoenix Valley Solar Helps You Get It Right.
Understanding how solar works is the first step. Getting the right system sized correctly for your home, your utility provider, and your energy usage is where most homeowners need expert guidance. As an independent solar broker in Arizona, Phoenix Valley Solar evaluates your specific APS or SRP bill, roof orientation, and energy goals, then matches you with the best vetted local installer for your situation.
We also walk you through every financing option available, including our most popular choice for Phoenix Valley homeowners: the prepaid solar lease with 30% upfront savings.
Ready to see how solar could work for your home specifically? Use our free Solar Calculator to get an instant estimate, learn about our services, or contact us to schedule a free no-obligation consultation with our team.